Surely there is a difference between the mentally ill who are taking their medication and in treatment and those who aren't or haven't been adequately diagnosed or treated? Yes. And that's why anyone can pull statistics to prove their point.... it depends upon the parameters.

In Cocord ie., of 5 shootings, 4 were by mentally unwell. Other stats are similar (especially of the most recent school shootings... 7 or 8 of them and 6? were of obvious mentally ill (not sure on those stats but close).

The issue is UNTREATED mental unwellness. Those without any care, and those who tend to go off their medication when they think they are fine.

BUT this is a really serious and tricky issue. I can see where an overreaching (or just plain ignorant) council and administration will want to throw ALL mental unwellness into the pot... including those with even occasional depression. See how that works? Just about EVERYONE has some bought with depression. This would be a perfect way for those who want total control and removal of all weapons to add "depression" into any mix of non-permit-able people list.

If you happen to think that gun laws keep you safe... check out (all) statistics regarding Chicago IL. It has a ban on ALL firearms with stiff laws and penalties... AND it has the highest murder rate by firearms in the country. How does that work for us? It doesn't.

I think it's important to contact your representative and tell them what you think--whatever it is. Let them know this IS a hot topic, that the American people ARE very interested...plus, most of us here have a good view regarding the mental health issues, and the LACK of funding for good care! Tell them!

TC